No Direct Refunds for First-Year Students Under “No-Fee Stress” Policy – Dr. Apaak Clarifies
The government has revised its approach to the implementation of the “No-Fee Stress” policy, revealing that first-year university students who have already paid their fees for the 2025 academic year will not receive direct refunds as previously announced.
This policy was originally introduced as part of the NDC’s campaign pledge. Former President John Mahama, then a presidential candidate, promised to absorb tuition fees for all Level 100 students within his first 120 days in office. The commitment was reiterated by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu during his vetting, where he assured the public that students who had already paid their fees would be refunded accordingly.
The government even allocated a budget of GHS499.8 million for the initiative. Initially, it was expected that students who had paid their first-year fees before the policy took effect would be reimbursed with direct cash payments. However, this has now changed.
According to Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak, students will not receive the money directly. Instead, their accounts at their respective universities will be credited with the equivalent amount. This credit will be applied toward their second-year fees. In a statement on JoyNews’ NewsNight, Dr. Apaak explained that the rationale behind the new approach is to streamline the process while maintaining accountability and transparency.
He clarified, “Rather than giving out physical cash reimbursements, the same amount will now be applied as a fee credit for their second year. Since these students are continuing their studies, the funds used for first-year payments will simply offset their future academic costs.”
Dr. Apaak emphasized that all disbursements will be made directly to universities to ensure effective tracking and management of the funds. This change, he said, will also help avoid logistical complications and reduce the risk of financial mismanagement.
“This method allows us to maintain oversight and control over the use of public funds while still honouring the commitment made to the students,” he noted.
The decision marks a shift from the earlier promises, but the government insists that the overall benefit to students remains intact. Though direct refunds will not be issued, the fee relief will still be realised through credits that reduce future academic expenses.
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